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bolometer
bolometer , instrument for detecting and measuring radiation , e.g., visible light , infrared radiation , and ultraviolet radiation , in amounts as small as one millionth of an erg . The bolometer was invented in 1880 by Samuel P. Langley. Basically it consists of a radiation-sensitive resistance element in one branch of a Wheatstone bridge; changes in radiation cause changes in the electrical resistance of the element. The radiation-sensitive element may be a platinum strip, a semiconductor film, or any other substance whose resistance is altered by slight changes in the amount of radiant energy falling on it. |
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"bolometer." The Columbia Encyclopedia, 6th ed.. 2011. Encyclopedia.com. 26 May. 2012 <http://www.encyclopedia.com>. "bolometer." The Columbia Encyclopedia, 6th ed.. 2011. Encyclopedia.com. (May 26, 2012). http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1E1-bolomete.html "bolometer." The Columbia Encyclopedia, 6th ed.. 2011. Retrieved May 26, 2012 from Encyclopedia.com: http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1E1-bolomete.html |
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bolometer
bolometer A detector sensitive to radiation of all wavelengths. It has a blackened surface so that the incoming radiation raises its temperature, which is measured from a change in electrical resistance. While the bolometer can be used at any wavelength, it is best suited to measuring infrared wavelengths longer than 6 μm.
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Cite this article
"bolometer." A Dictionary of Astronomy. 1997. Encyclopedia.com. 26 May. 2012 <http://www.encyclopedia.com>. "bolometer." A Dictionary of Astronomy. 1997. Encyclopedia.com. (May 26, 2012). http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O80-bolometer.html "bolometer." A Dictionary of Astronomy. 1997. Retrieved May 26, 2012 from Encyclopedia.com: http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O80-bolometer.html |
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